Novak Djokovic Claims Historic China Open Title Amid Rival's Retirement

Novak Djokovic has returned to the China Open after 11 years and won a historic seventh title in Beijing. The 39-year-old Serbian secured the championship on Tuesday when opponent Alex de Minaur retired with a left adductor strain, with Djokovic leading 7-6(3), 0-1.

Even after more than two decades at the top, Djokovic feels the weight of expectation. He says the responsibility can be a burden, especially on days when he isn't feeling his best. To manage this, he carries a lesson from the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant. "Kobe Bryant used to say that," Djokovic told reporters. "He would always want to play because there probably is always at least one or more fans that are coming, maybe the only time to see you perform." This perspective helps Djokovic remember he plays for the sport and its fans, not only for himself.

As fellow ATP legend Kei Nishikori retired at the Japan Open in Tokyo, Djokovic paid tribute to his former rival. The Serbian, who held an 18-2 head-to-head record against Nishikori, suggested the Japanese star's only regret might be his fitness. "He, unfortunately, was injured quite a lot and struggled throughout his career to keep fit," Djokovic said ahead of the Shanghai Masters. He praised Nishikori's talent and timing, calling him a top-5 player at his best and a pioneer for Japanese and Asian tennis.

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner recently announced his season is over due to knee inflammation, having not played since July. Djokovic, who knows the difficulty of returning from a long layoff, plans to contact the Italian star. The 24-time Grand Slam champion empathizes with the challenge Sinner faces in recovering and regaining top form after an extended break from competition.

The final's abrupt end due to de Minaur's injury initially confused the Beijing crowd. For die-hard supporter Stan Huang, who traveled from northeastern China, the moment was still a dream realized. "I've been supporting Djokovic for nearly 20 years, and this is the first time I've watched him play in person," Huang said. "I am so happy to see him win the title." The victory showed Djokovic's enduring global appeal and his special connection with fans in China.

• KEY TAKEAWAYS: Novak Djokovic won his seventh China Open title in Beijing. He still draws motivation from advice given by Kobe Bryant. He praised the career of retiring rival Kei Nishikori. He plans to support injured world No. 1 Jannik Sinner.